Austin Insider Blog

This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of.

Austin's Top Pet-Friendly Hotels

Not sure where to hang your hat (and leash) when you travel to Austin with pets? Austin is more than dog- friendly . In fact, you could say we're dog- obsessed . So there are plenty of welcoming hotels to choose from, including some of the city's best boutique and high-end accommodations. With pools…

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Visiting Lakeway Resort & Spa

Nestled on the banks of Lake Travis in the Texas Hill Country, the 168-room Lakeway Resort and Spa creates a distinct getaway bordering the urban allure of Austin. With lakeside diversions of sailing, boating, fishing and water activities across 65 miles of lakeshore, the AAA Four Diamond Award…

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Where to Celebrate Juneteenth In Austin

Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day,” is a holiday that celebrates the abolition of slavery in Texas. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, some states under Confederate jurisdiction did not implement it until years later. It wasn’t until June 19, 1965 that Union…

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Your Complete Austin Summer Bucket List

Summer is a great time to visit Austin. Outdoor activities are the name of the game, from kayaking Lady Bird Lake and cooling off in a spring-fed swimming hole, to catching an outdoor concert and picnicking in a scenic park. Here are 25 Austin summer activities to help build your itinerary. Lady…

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Autism-Friendly Activities in Austin

No matter whether you or a loved one fall on the spectrum, Austin is full of spots that offer a great time during your visit. Whether you're planning a date, taking some much-needed alone time, or headed on a family outing, each location offers a place for autistic people to just be. Cheers…

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Visiting the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Tucked away in South Austin, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center brims with native Central Texas blooms and landscapes. Designated as the State Botanic Garden and Arboretum of Texas, the gardens reflect the unique story of former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson’s journey towards beautifying Austin…

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Visiting the Austin Zoo

Located southwest of the Barton Creek Habitat Preserve, the Austin Zoo is a family-friendly adventure. Open year-round, the animal sanctuary and rescue houses more than 300 animals of 100 different species. Featuring a feeding area, a train ride and regular educational demonstrations, kids and…

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ABC Zilker Kite Festival

Welcome Spring at the ABC Kite Festival The nation’s oldest kite festival is a fresh-air ballyhoo of kite flying contests, food, games and more. Austin’s annual ABC Kite Festival takes place each spring, and is free to attend. Hundreds of colorful kites will dot the sky from morning till night. This…

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Top Things To Do in Austin with Kids this Spring

While much of the country is still thawing out from the winter, spring in Austin is sunny and mild, making it the perfect time of year to visit with your kids. Here are some of our favorite family-friendly ways to celebrate the season! Credit Monet Hambrick. Visit a Park Soak up the sunshine while…

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Visiting Mayfield Park & Mount Bonnell

Situated in the heart of west Austin, witness the natural beauty of Central Texas with a visit to Mayfield Park and Mount Bonnell. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a visitor looking for a glimpse of Austin's famous wild peacocks or a local, you're sure to enjoy these historic parks and their…

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